Bi-erasure is the tendency to ignore, remove, falsify, or re-explain evidence of bisexuality in history, academia, the media, and other primary sources. It can manifest in various ways, including the denial or dismissal of bisexuality as a legitimate sexual orientation, the assumption that bisexual individuals are either confused or transitioning between heterosexuality and homosexuality, and the pressure on bisexual individuals to “choose a side.”
Manifestations of Bi-Erasure:
Media Representation: Bisexual characters in media are often depicted as promiscuous, indecisive, or their bisexuality is downplayed or erased altogether. This lack of accurate representation can reinforce stereotypes and misinformation about bisexuality.
Academic and Historical Context: Historical and academic discussions may ignore or mislabel bisexual individuals, either categorising them as heterosexual or homosexual based on their current partner or other criteria. This erasure can distort the understanding of bisexuality’s prevalence and significance in various contexts.
Personal Relationships: Bisexual individuals might face invalidation from both heterosexual and homosexual communities. For example, a bisexual person in a same-sex relationship might be assumed to be gay, while in an opposite-sex relationship, they might be presumed heterosexual.
Threats Posed by Bi-Erasure:
Mental Health: The invalidation and invisibility associated with bi-erasure can contribute to mental health issues among bisexual individuals, including anxiety, depression, and a sense of isolation. Studies have shown that bisexual people often experience higher rates of mental health issues compared to their heterosexual and homosexual counterparts.
Identity Confusion: The lack of recognition and understanding of bisexuality can lead to confusion and difficulty in self-identifying. This can hinder personal development and the ability to form healthy relationships.
Discrimination and Stigma: Bi-erasure perpetuates stereotypes and stigma, which can result in discrimination in various settings, including the workplace, healthcare, and social environments. Bisexual individuals might face unique forms of prejudice, such as being perceived as more likely to cheat or being deemed untrustworthy.
Community Support: Bisexual individuals might struggle to find support within LGBTQ+ spaces if their identity is invalidated or overlooked. This can lead to a lack of community and resources that are vital for coping and advocacy.
Addressing Bi-Erasure:
Education and Awareness: Promoting accurate information about bisexuality through education and media can help combat stereotypes and misinformation.
Representation: Increasing the visibility of bisexual individuals in media, academia, and other public spheres can help normalise bisexuality and provide positive role models.
Inclusive Policies and Practices: Ensuring that policies and practices in workplaces, healthcare settings, and LGBTQ+ organisations are inclusive of bisexual identities can help mitigate discrimination and provide necessary support.
Community Building: Encouraging the formation and strengthening of bisexual-specific support networks within the larger LGBTQ+ community can provide much-needed spaces for validation and solidarity.
For more detailed information, you can explore these resources:
– Thriveworks on Understanding Bi-Erasure
– GLAAD on Erasure of Bisexuality
– Expansive Therapy on Bi Erasure and Mental Health
– Psychology Today on Bisexual Erasure
– YR Media on the Health Threat of Bi-Erasure